FAQ
How do I add glitter to an enhancement without causing it to breakdown prematurely?
A current trend is to add glitter, mylar, and other embellishments to nail enhancements, but how can nail techs be sure they aren’t compromising the strength of the enhancement and causing premature service breakdown by adding too much? Sometimes the glitter tips I’ve sculpted break off at the free edge, causing clients to doubt my abilities. (This occurs more often in gels than acrylics.) ... read more
What do you do to be environmentally friendly in your salon?
What do you do to be environmentally friendly in your salon?... read more
How does cold weather affect the nails?
How does cold weather affect the nails?... read more
Any advice on firing a nail tech?
I have to fire one of my nail techs. I’ve never done anything like that before. Any advice?... read more
How should I respond when clients ask me why they should pay a higher price for my services?
How should I respond when clients ask me why they should pay a higher price for my services rather than go to a discount salon?... read more
How do I handle a salon owner that breaks state rules regarding sanitation?
The owner of my salon is breaking many state rules and regulations regarding disinfection and sanitation, particularly when it comes to pedicures, and I am worried for my clients’ safety. I’ve spoken to her, but she doesn’t seem to care. How should I handle this?... read more
Why do you choose not to wear a mask when filing acrylics or gels?
We all know our lungs deserve a break from the dust produced when filing acrylics or gels — especially when using an electric file. But for a variety of reasons most of us choose not to wear a mask for protection. We asked techs who don’t wear masks to tell us why not.... read more
How do I reach teens and tweens?
I’m having trouble reaching the teens and tweens. They don’t seem to want to come in and get services done, especially enhancement services like gels and acrylics.... read more
Are there gels that do not have to be cured under the light?
I have a client who had her nails done while I was out of town. She requested gel nails, however there was no light used. The tech used powder then mixed it with the liquid to make the gel. She was assured it was gel and not acrylic, but no light was used. After the nails were completed, they put a different coat on and used light. Sounds like acrylic with a gel sealant to me, but they told her it was a new way of applying gel. I am very confused. I thought all gels had to be cured under the light.... read more
What is a good technique for polishing a French manicure on toes?
What is a good technique for polishing a French manicure on toes? I seem to make a mess and can’t get a thin, white free edge.... read more
How do you warn your clients not to use lotion before they come in?
I read about a tech who had a client that could not hold gel on her nails. The tech tried everything, and then found out the client had been applying hand lotion prior to the services. My question is, what are the signs to look for that a client has recently applied lotion? And how do you warn your clients not to use lotions before they come in?... read more
How do I get my salon owner to compy with state sanitation rules?
The owner of my salon is breaking many state rules and regulations regarding disinfection and sanitation, particularly when it comes to pedicures, and I am worried for my clients’ safety. I’ve spoken to her, but she doesn’t seem to care. How should I handle this?... read more